Preview — Unbroken Fire
by Anne Wheeler

Unbroken Fire (Asrian Skies, #2)

After dealing what she hopes is a major blow to the enemy, Avery Rendon has found her way home to Asria. Safe for now, she spends her time adjusting to her new role in her planet’s future and reveling in personal victories. But Asria is still under the control of the Haederan Empire, and their grip has only tightened since the invasion. When the Asrian prime minister asksAfter dealing what she hopes is a major blow to the enemy, Avery Rendon has found her way home to Asria. Safe for now, she spends her time adjusting to her new role in her planet’s future and reveling in personal victories. But Asria is still under the control of the Haederan Empire, and their grip has only tightened since the invasion. When the Asrian prime minister asks her to beg the Commonwealth for help in person, she agrees.

It’s a harrowing trip to the Commonwealth’s headquarters, one which comes to an abrupt end when her ship is intercepted by the Haederans in deep space. Her traitorous uncle, the former King of Asria, is there waiting for her. Worse, so is the Haederan interrogator who has haunted her nightmares for the past year. And what he wants with her now? Avery isn’t sure she wants to find out.

Alliances will shift. Trust will be broken. And through it all, time is running out for the people Avery cares about the most....more

Community Reviews

There was so much to love about this book, from the gorgeous writing to the twists and turns. This character-driven space opera had me on the edge of my seat. Avery is a character that I adore; not only is she intelligent and resourceful, she’s wonderfully human, sometimes letting her hopes and perceptions cloud her vision. Avery truly is one of my favorite protagonists. Not only do I relate very strongly to her, but she is one of those brilliant protagonists who was wonderfully flawed, she’s faThere was so much to love about this book, from the gorgeous writing to the twists and turns. This character-driven space opera had me on the edge of my seat. Avery is a character that I adore; not only is she intelligent and resourceful, she’s wonderfully human, sometimes letting her hopes and perceptions cloud her vision. Avery truly is one of my favorite protagonists. Not only do I relate very strongly to her, but she is one of those brilliant protagonists who was wonderfully flawed, she’s far from perfect, but it’s so easy to cheer for her.

That wonderfully human nature extends itself to all of Anne’s characters. With everyone’s conflicting motives, as well as some stellar liars on her cast, it was impossible to know who to trust and I found myself playing a guessing game on who was being honest and who had ulterior motives. Not to mention those wonderful characters that I try so hard to hate, and yet, somehow they’ve wormed their way into my heart (I’m sure anyone who’s read the first knows who I’m talking about) ;).

One thing that I have to say is how much I enjoy Anne’s writing, it has incredible voice to it and it’s so easy to get lost in her words. She is one of those rare writers who has mastered the art of transporting the reader - I forget that I’m reading at all and that the story isn’t playing out before my eyes.

I highly recommend this book. This is character-driven space opera at it’s finest, and I am so looking forward to future books from Anne. ...more

For a 'review' that is actually more a hilarious fangirl reaction post, please visit: shannonahiner.wordpress.com. What follows is the 'safe for work' edition.

Unbroken Fire is a fantastic and welcome follow up to Asrian Skies. Picking up soon after where AS left off, we continue to follow main character, Avery Rendon, as she attempts to navigate a very complicated life as princess/queen/flygirl/spy-- Look, let's make this simple: Avery has a lot of hats, they don't all fit quite right, but that'For a 'review' that is actually more a hilarious fangirl reaction post, please visit: shannonahiner.wordpress.com. What follows is the 'safe for work' edition.

Unbroken Fire is a fantastic and welcome follow up to Asrian Skies. Picking up soon after where AS left off, we continue to follow main character, Avery Rendon, as she attempts to navigate a very complicated life as princess/queen/flygirl/spy-- Look, let's make this simple: Avery has a lot of hats, they don't all fit quite right, but that's okay because she's just a woman doing the best she can with the life and cards she's been handed.

Characters return from book 1 including plenty of spoilers that I won't grant you here. What's important is that all the great elements from the first book are present, and are dialed up to the extreme: political intrigue, spies, traitors, dangerous situations and never knowing who's on whose side or who to trust.

Translation: This book is FUN to read and immerse yourself in.

Characters will surprise you, situations you thought were irreparable will twist and turn in unexpected ways and at the end...Well, I shan't spoil it for you, but the end will leave you both satisfied and ready for more.

And honestly, what more could you ask of a good book? Buy this, read this, it's awesome and you need it.

(I still have so much to say about this book, I keep thinking of more, but I'm leaving off here. If you're curious, just ask.)...more

Take this journey with Wheeler’s characters. You won’t regret it. Intrigue. High stakes. Life and death. Betrayals and old loyalties.

**If you have not read Asrian Skies, book 1, DO NOT READ the rest of this review. SPOILERS. Or live dangerously. Your choice.*

Unbroken Fire is book 2 in Anne Wheeler’s Asrian Skies series, and it continues the story of Avery Rendon, queen of Asria and former spy for the Commonwealth.

Avery’s life and her character have undergone many changes since the beginning ofTake this journey with Wheeler’s characters. You won’t regret it. Intrigue. High stakes. Life and death. Betrayals and old loyalties.

**If you have not read Asrian Skies, book 1, DO NOT READ the rest of this review. SPOILERS. Or live dangerously. Your choice.*

Unbroken Fire is book 2 in Anne Wheeler’s Asrian Skies series, and it continues the story of Avery Rendon, queen of Asria and former spy for the Commonwealth.

Avery’s life and her character have undergone many changes since the beginning of Asrian Skies, where all she wanted to do was fly in the Commonwealth’s space command.

Although the first book ended on a hopeful note, after Avery successfully steals the stealth technology from the Haederans (which allowed them to get the jump on the Asrian Defense Forces) and hands it over to the Commonwealth, Asria’s future remains grim under Haederan rule.

At the end of Asrian Skies, Avery had the chance to stay in the safety of the Commonwealth, and quite likely never see Colonel Chase again.

Does she?

Of course not.

Unbroken Fire opens with her back on Asria, sifting through the ashes of what was once her family home. It was burnt by the Haederans who occupy her planet and killed her parents after her Uncle Victor’s abdication.

The opening scene sets the tone for the book, for Avery rises from the ashes of her past life, her spirit or fire unbroken DESPITE the harrowing experiences of book 1.

This may seem like an easy enough thing for a heroine to do, but Wheeler doesn’t make it easy at all for Avery.

Suffering from PTSD since her harsh interrogations and imprisonment, Avery is far from well. Wheeler’s flawless description of the after effects renders Avery’s character both realistic and sympathetic to the reader. The first few chapters (and a happy reunion <3 ), however, brings home how truly terrorized Avery was during her imprisonment by the Imperial Security Command, led by (reader favourite) antagonist Colonel Chase. However, Avery bravely grapples with her fears in almost every scene she shares with Chase, and she does it all to help her people and her friends.

Queen material? Unequivocally so.

Chase fans, of course, will be thrilled to see him back on the page, and I have to admit he steals the limelight when he arrives. He’s a moving force within the book—a complex man of ruthless practicality and touching empathy. His and Avery’s paths seem irrevocably intertwined—fated some might say to meet again and again.

And here is the mastery of Wheeler’s fine-tuned plot. A series of coincidences soon start to play into one another, and Avery begins to understand she’s being manipulated once again, but all is not as it seems. Wheeler slowly peels back the layers of her plot and Colonel Chase’s role in Avery’s new rebellious endeavours.

What’s that role? Well, you’ll have to read to find out, especially for the surprising twist at the end.

Here’s a Chase scene to tempt you, if aren’t already convinced to read this series:

He wore the amused expression that had always aggravated her on Asria. Like the whole thing was a joke to him. Probably it was.

“Don’t look at me like that.” The amusement turned to a boyish grin. “You’re our guest for now.”

“You mean hostage, I’m sure.”

Right. Annoy him. That had always helped things before.

(Excerpt from Unbroken Fire by Anne Wheeler, p123)

In closing,

Hadley fans—yes, you’ll get more Hadley. No, not as much as you’d like.

If you weren’t a fan of Merritt in book 1, I think you’ll find your heart warming to him. Also grab some tissue, you’ll need it.

Perrin fans—wait, what am I saying? There are no Perrin fans, but you’ll be happy to know you get to hate him even more as an antagonist/villain in book 2.

“Forever’s End” readers: those who got the chance to read this short story by Wheeler will get a special kick out of her epilogue—DON’T READ IT FIRST. Come on, who does that??

So in summary, if you like political spy thrillers in space with strong women and complex characters, buy Asrian Skies and Unbroken Fire. You’ll be chuckling out loud one moment, sobbing the next, and gripped to the edge of your seat in between.

Meghan T

*Disclaimer, a free copy of Unbroken Fire was given to me in exchange for an honest review. I also purchased a copy for myself!*...more

Just when you think there may be a ray of hope on the horizon for Avery and Asria, the light is sniffed out. Anne Wheeler takes us on a new adventure with Avery Rendon as the Queen of Asria tries to get her planet back from the Haderan Empire. But the plan doesn’t necessarily go well, but it does throw Avery back into the path of her former interrogator and every scene with them together is highly entertaining - well, most of them.Disclaimer: I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Just when you think there may be a ray of hope on the horizon for Avery and Asria, the light is sniffed out. Anne Wheeler takes us on a new adventure with Avery Rendon as the Queen of Asria tries to get her planet back from the Haderan Empire. But the plan doesn’t necessarily go well, but it does throw Avery back into the path of her former interrogator and every scene with them together is highly entertaining - well, most of them.

The political drama doesn’t stop either, and it actually worsens for Avery to the point where I wanted to inflict pain on two particular bad people - I’m not going to say who but trust me, they deserve it.

Unbroken Fire is an excellent sequel to Avery’s story, and I will be rereading it again and again....more

It is not everyday that I find a book where from page one, I want to swallow the book whole to know what happens, and yet, I want to let the whole story unfold over time.

There is so much that I love about this story. First of all, her characters. I love them - especially Avery, the protagonist. Their depth and development is incredible - in particular, the humanity and realness of the characters, and their reactions and psychology, stand out to me as a highlight.

Second, the story itself - so wIt is not everyday that I find a book where from page one, I want to swallow the book whole to know what happens, and yet, I want to let the whole story unfold over time.

There is so much that I love about this story. First of all, her characters. I love them - especially Avery, the protagonist. Their depth and development is incredible - in particular, the humanity and realness of the characters, and their reactions and psychology, stand out to me as a highlight.

Second, the story itself - so well told. Each chapter kept me on my toes with new twists and turns. Each obstacle and challenge was so well set up, yet caught me by surprise. I continuously wanted to know what would happen next, yet hoping that finally things would work out for the young queen.

The world - or should I say, universe - that Anne has created is wonderful. It is simple, straightforward, and understandable, but still contains the 'otherness' that makes a sci-fi story exciting. I felt fully immersed in her world and each setting. And I must add that I especially enjoyed the little insights or details into the different cultures.

As a sequel, well, I could not have asked for a better one. This story does not disappoint, rather it lives up to the high standards of Asrian Skies, and maybe even surpasses it.

Anne Wheeler is an excellent storyteller and writer. I am continuously impressed by her talent, and I highly recommend her work. I believe that you will be able to enjoy this story, and all of Anne's work, whether you are a fan of Sci-fi/Space Opera or not....more

This is not a series that you can jump into during the second book. The first book provides so much background...besides it is amazing. So, just go read the first book. If you have done so already, let's continue...

I devoured this book even faster than the first. My Goodreads says it took three days, but the first day I was interrupted and only really was able to read one chapter. So...in reality it took me only two days to finish. If I was not watching my 1.5-year-old and living with my in-lawsThis is not a series that you can jump into during the second book. The first book provides so much background...besides it is amazing. So, just go read the first book. If you have done so already, let's continue...

I devoured this book even faster than the first. My Goodreads says it took three days, but the first day I was interrupted and only really was able to read one chapter. So...in reality it took me only two days to finish. If I was not watching my 1.5-year-old and living with my in-laws, for the time being, I would have read this in a day...it was that good.

In my review of the previous book, I mentioned how the reader never knows who to trust. This holds true in this novel as well. You are always left guessing who is really on Avery's side. The reader only knows as much information as Avery. And again...no information dumping here. Anne Wheeler manages to weave such intricate details into this wonderful story and avoid boring the reader too quickly.

The plot is so in-depth, filled with twists and turns, some you may not even expect. The story keeps you on your toes. The pacing is perfect as well...just when things slow down, something big happens to pull the reader right back to the edge of their seat, making you crave more...wonder what will happen next.Unbroken Fire will grab you from the start and never let go. To me, this book felt much more...what is the word...intense? Filled with action and mystery? It was amazing.

You continue to see Avery develop here, which I love. She is such a strong woman, I love it! Other characters are seen once again here. I do not want to give much away, but one character with a following (basically fan group) comes back! Ugh, he is the character we all love to hate...but can't get enough of. We see a lot more of his backstory here, it explains a lot of why he behaves the way he does and who he really is as a person. I have to say, I like him before, but now I have a whole newfound respect for him. Not that his previous actions or those within this book were justified.

This is a prime example of a well-written character driven book. The people are what make the story. Their relationships, fears, actions, interactions, etc. I connect so deeply with these characters. I have not read a phenomenal Sci-Fi book such as this in...I am unsure how long. But, Anne Wheeler has a gift for it.

This book crushed me. So many moments "hit me right in the feels," as my husband always says.I finished and sat on the couch in awe. I could not believe it was over. I know Anne is taking a step back from writing, and I respect her reasons for doing so...however, I NEED more! I hate having to leave this world and the people in it. Another amazing aspect of the Asrian Skies series is that the romance never ever takes over the story. It is filled with action, deceit, fear, love, and so much more. Since I could go on forever, explaining how much I loved this book and its prequel, I have to leave you with this...go start this series. Like today, not a week from now or a month from now...today. You will not regret it!...more

Unbroken Fire is the sequel to the awesome Asrian Skies by Anne Wheeler. You really need to read Asrian Skies before embarking on Unbroken Fire. It's not that Unbroken Fire won't be a great read, but that Asrian Skies is too, and it's way better if you read them in the correct order! In my review of Asrian Skies I compared Anne Wheeler to Ann Leckie and Elizabeth Bear. This sequel is even better than the first one, and I stand by that comparison. Anne Wheeler is a really talented author, and sheUnbroken Fire is the sequel to the awesome Asrian Skies by Anne Wheeler. You really need to read Asrian Skies before embarking on Unbroken Fire. It's not that Unbroken Fire won't be a great read, but that Asrian Skies is too, and it's way better if you read them in the correct order! In my review of Asrian Skies I compared Anne Wheeler to Ann Leckie and Elizabeth Bear. This sequel is even better than the first one, and I stand by that comparison. Anne Wheeler is a really talented author, and she crafts amazing multi-dimensional stories with multiple twists.

Following on from the events of Asrian Skies, Unbroken Fire follows Avery Rendon in her quest to free her home planet of Asria from the invading Haedarans. The title's unbroken fire refers to Avery's spirit. Despite her ordeals in Asrian Skies her fire to free her people is unbroken.

Unbroken Fire Avery has returned to Asria, and has joined her government in exile deep in an underground bunker. Months have passed and there is no sign of liberation from the Commonwealth, and Avery feels trapped in the bunker. She gladly takes the opportunity when asked to seek help in person from their Commonwealth allies. However the escape isn't smooth. Tension is high as Avery and her helpers take over a vessel to leave Asria.

Intercepted in interstellar space Avery falls back into the hands of the Haedaran empire. In what seems more than mere coincidence her uncle, previously the King of Asria, is on board the battleship that picks her up. As is her tormentor from Asrian Skies, Colonel Chase. Avery ends up back on Asria as a political pawn, and does her best to continue resisting without crossing the line to outright rebellion. All the while she is psychologically tortured.

While the story moves on in linear time the plot is far from linear. There are twists and turns. The Haedarans are riven by factionalism and fight like cats in a bag. Events play out, but it isn't clear who has done what, and why they've acted that way (until the end). There are several riddles wrapped in enigmas that are slowly played out. The main characters, Avery & Chase, are fleshed out further in the course of Unbroken Fire and develop in entirely plausible, if painful, ways. Alliances are formed and broken, people plot and scheme. It's an awesome ride, and a great continuation of the story. I'm also pleased that there's a first draft of the third book in the trilogy, so sometime I'll get to read even more of this awesome story!

Chase I'm trying to avoid spoilers, but I'm going to risk them for a brief note on Colonel Chase. Chase is the main villain in Asrian Skies, he's a sort of cultured gestapo type. It's that mixture of contradictions that made him such a compelling villain, what he did was calculated rationally to break Avery. It was awful, yet Chase is a thinking man. We see a lot more of him in Unbroken Fire, and he still serves his empire. We see the power struggle between Chase, a senior figure in the independent imperial security machine, the Haedaran Governor, and the (former) King of Asria. Chase's backstory comes out, and we feel sympathy for him. We also better understand his autonomy, and why he seems to help Avery against the Governor and her uncle.

As the back cover blurb says "Alliances will shift. Trust will be broken. And through it all, time is running out for the people Avery cares about the most."...more

Since my memories of Asrian Skies were a little blurry when I picked up Unbroken Fire, I was afraid I wouldn't remember enough to follow along. I was blown away by how masterfully Wheeler weaves reminders of the first book into this one, all while starting strong and building momentum.

I enjoyed this book. Like the first, I was pleasantly (or heart-breakingly, as the case may be) surprised at some turns the story took. I continue to love Avery and feel invested in her story. Wheeler even changedSince my memories of Asrian Skies were a little blurry when I picked up Unbroken Fire, I was afraid I wouldn't remember enough to follow along. I was blown away by how masterfully Wheeler weaves reminders of the first book into this one, all while starting strong and building momentum.

I enjoyed this book. Like the first, I was pleasantly (or heart-breakingly, as the case may be) surprised at some turns the story took. I continue to love Avery and feel invested in her story. Wheeler even changed my opinion of one of the characters that I strongly disliked in Asrian Skies, which is quite an accomplishment, because as a reader I hold grudges very strongly.

The reasons I have for not giving this book a full 5 stars are out of purely personal preference and my movement toward reserving that rating for books that have a deep personal impact on me. I thought this book did better at giving Avery some agency in the story, but I still wish she had had more agency; I prefer stories where MCs make the plot happen more than ones where they have the plot happen to them. There was also a tragedy described in the book that I felt hurt me more than I benefited from it; but I've become a lot more sensitive to violence recently.

If you enjoyed Asrian Skies, or if you enjoy thoughtful SciFi with interesting politics and well-developed characters, then this is the book for you :)...more

Anne Wheeler grew up with her nose in a book but earned two degrees in aviation before it occurred to her she was allowed to write her own. Fascinated with space travel from an early age, science fiction was a natural fit. When not working, moving, or writing her next novel, she can be found planning her next escape to the desert. A military spouse, she lives in Georgia with her husband, son, andAnne Wheeler grew up with her nose in a book but earned two degrees in aviation before it occurred to her she was allowed to write her own. Fascinated with space travel from an early age, science fiction was a natural fit. When not working, moving, or writing her next novel, she can be found planning her next escape to the desert. A military spouse, she lives in Georgia with her husband, son, and herd of cats.